Tribute concert for dedicated Thames Hospicecare fundraiser

Tribute concert for dedicated Thames Hospicecare fundraiser

A team of dedicated fundraisers are set to celebrate the life of their former chairman with a memorable big band performance.

Ros Fortescue passed away on February 25 following a battle with ovarian cancer, aged 66.

The North Town householder was chairman of the Maidenhead Fundraising Group for Thames Hospicecare for five years.

"She was a great chairman," said fellow fundraiser and group member Carol Barnes, 64.

"She was very enthusiastic and put her heart and soul into everything."

The eight-strong group, which was formed in 2008, helps organise fundraising events for Thames Hospice.

It provides a care service to people dealing with cancer and other terminal illnesses.

Now the group members are hoping their latest event, which features a performance by the Bucks, Berks and Oxon Big Band, will help raise some valuable cash for the hospice and serve as a fitting tribute to their friend.

"This concert was really her baby," added Carol, of Maidenhead Road in Cookham.

"We decided to dedicate it to her because we are all a bit shell-shocked that she has gone so quickly."

The group has managed to raise £40,000 for Thames Hospice since they got together.

Events have ranged from staging concerts to operating a gift wrapping stand in the Nicholsons Centre.

The Big Band Time concert takes place on April 26 at Taplow Court and includes an evening of classic big band music followed by a flag-waving finale to celebrate St George's Day.

"We hope everybody comes along and has a really good time and if they want to think about Ros that is great," added Carol who works for British Airways at Heathrow Airport.

A new mural at Boyne Hill infants was painted over the summer. It features sporting characters which are designed by children at the school.Boyne Hill Infant School, 30 Rutland Rd, Maidenhead. Jane Davies, Headteacher, Marianna James, Office Manager.